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Performance

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, a member of the elite crew of super SUVs, gets significant upgrades including an eight-speed automatic transmission, a 44-percent increase in towing capacity and improved infotainment technology. It was revealed Monday at the Detroit auto show.

Chassis

While the fully electronic eight-speed transmission is new to the SRT Grand Cherokee, it sticks with the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 that delivers 470 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

For drives that don't require a full-throttle experience, an eco mode has been added to improve fuel economy. Press the eco button and the shift schedule of the new transmission is instantly modified for optimum fuel efficiency. Cylinder deactivation, which isn't new to SRT but is more fully realized for 2014, also comes into play -- shutting down four cylinders in appropriate cruising conditions.

Even though it promises to be more fuel efficient, the 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT doesn't lose any capability. In fact, the 2014 model will also allow you to purchase bigger toys since towing capacity is boosted from 5,000 pounds to 7,200 pounds.

Launch control has also been added for the 2014 model. Operated via a button behind the shifter, this system mimics the inputs of a professional driver to deliver straight-line acceleration. Further customize your drive by selecting track mode, which delivers 70 percent of the engine's torque to the rear wheels only.

Other drive modes offered by the Selec-Track all-wheel-drive system include: auto, sport, tow, track and snow. Selec-Track is not new to the Grand Cherokee SRT, but its software has been upgraded for the 2014 model for improved performance.

Exterior

The Grand Cherokee SRT sticks with an already substantial suspension which includes a coil-spring front suspension with Bilstein adaptive damping (ADS), a multilink rear suspension that also uses coil springs, Bilstein ADS, aluminum lower control arms, independent upper links (tension and camber), and a separate toe link and stabilizer bar for maximum control.

Impressive braking that takes you from 60 mph to a stop in 116 feet continues courtesy of Brembo calipers (six-piston up front and four-piston in the back) and vented rotors.

Interior

The exterior won't change much for 2014, but a bulkier grille, new signature LED lamp treatment, a more aerodynamic rear spoiler and black vapor chrome accents all combine to fortify the sinister look. SRT boss Ralph Gilles, called it the “Luke I am your father” treatment for the 2014 model.

Notably less spooky, the new one-touch liftgate feature now allows the back to be opened with the press of a button rather than pulling a lever.

About the Detroit auto show

An updated Uconnect system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen will now allow SRT owners to share lap times and 0-to-60 mph times via a built-in 3G connection. Other interior changes include a T-shaped gearshift knob, more ergonomically correct paddle shifters, wireless compatibility with smartphone apps including Pandora, iHeart radio and Slacker radio, and voice-to text capability.

The gauge cluster also goes digital in the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, with a 7-inch customizable display just beyond the redesigned three-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel.

Laguna-leather seating upholstery will be available in either torque (black), or -- for the Instagram lovers -- Sepia tones.

The annual North American International Auto Show, better known as the Detroit auto show, has maintained its place as a barometer for the entire industry. For 2013, NAIAS takes place Jan. 14-27 and will host concept cars, green cars and supercars from all the major automakers, including what's expected to be a highlight this year: the new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette. Check out Autoweek's complete coverage of the Detroit auto show here.